Drilling Parameters

Whereas the relatively cheap and rapid

Reverse Circulation drilling method
has gained popularity on the surface,
especially for gold exploration and ore
grade identification, core drilling is
still the predominant method used
underground. The main reasons for
this are the need for lighter equipment
suitable for shaft transport and set-up
in confined areas, and the capability to
drill deeper holes in all directions.
Also, substantially more detailed geo-
logical information can be obtained
from a core than from sampling chips.
In order to obtain the best possible
result, the following drilling parame-
ters have to be optimized:
bit selection there is a wide range of
different types suited to various rock
conditions, but an impregnated bit is
the normal choice for most situations.
bit rotation (rpm) this governs the
rate at which the impregnated dia-
monds cut the hole bottom. The bit
matrix should wear at a rate that con-
tinuously exposes sharp diamonds,
while releasing the worn ones. In
cases where the correct bit type is
chosen, and all drilling parameters are
optimized, the bits are self-sharpening.
Generally, an increase in rpm gives
higher penetration rate. A periphery
speed of 2 to 5 m/s is recommended
for impregnated bits, while 1 to 3 m/s
gives better performance for surface
set bits.
weight on bit (WOB) the weight on
the bit is applied by the feed force
adjusted by the weight of the drill
string, with compensation for hole
angle and friction losses. Excessive
weight on bit causes high bit wear,
core barrel and rod damage, and in-
hole deviation. Too little weight
results in lost production, as the bit
might lose its ability to self-sharpen
and become polished.
Water Flushing
Water flushing fulfils the following
functions: removal of cuttings; cooling
of the bit; lubrication of the drill
string; reduction of vibration; and sta-
bilization of the hole walls.
Tests have shown that, by increas-
ing the flow from 10 to 15 l/s, bit life
increases by 64%. The corresponding
figure is 38% when flow is increased
from 15 to 20 l/s. Vibrations in the drill
string should be kept to a minimum, to
reduce risk of core loss, and damage to
bit, core barrel, and the rig itself.
When drilling, there are many dif-
ferent ways to get the bit to cut effec-
tively. These include adjusting the
feed, varying the rpm, and varying the
water flow. Every driller learns from
experience the best way to get the bit
to penetrate successfully, using indi-
vidual techniques to translate the feel
and sound from the rig and the rock.
In many cases, the drilling is conduct-
ed without any control instruments or
gauges at all. Mixed and unpredictable
geological conditions are most diffi-
cult for the driller, who has to make
repeated rapid adjustments to get the
best life and productivity out of each
bit.
Automatic Performance
Control
The drilling cycle consists of the
following activities: actual drilling; rod
handling; core handling; water pumping
TALKING TECHNICALLY
UNDERGROUND MINING EQUIPMENT 3
Principles of Underground Core
Drilling
Computerization of
Controls
After fully hydraulic drillrigs were
launched in the early 1970s, there
were no further significant
advances in exploration drilling
technology for 25 years. Then, in
1997, Atlas Copco introduced
computers into the control
system. Now, some seven years
later, the rate of development is
more noticeable, especially in
terms of higher productivity at
lower operating costs. The fol-
lowing article explains the vari-
ety of innovations on offer from
Atlas Copco to enhance under-
ground exploration drilling.
Diamec U6 in operation showing the APC control screen.
UGE1/05a Priples of un.g. 3-4 22/7/04 5:19 pm Page 3
to clean the hole; and non-productive
time for repair and maintenance.
The new Diamec U6 APC
(Automatic Performance Control) rep-
resents the first of the third generation
of Craelius computerized rigs. It
incorporates the latest hydraulic and
electronic technology into a modern
compact design, and includes many
options that give real flexibility.
The philosophy behind the APC
system is that constant penetration rate
gives best bit life and overall perfor-
mance. Therefore, every Craelius bit is
labelled with a recommended penetra-
tion rate. This information is pre-set
on the control panel, much like the
cruise control in a car. Bit weight, rod
weight, rotation speed and water pres-
sure are all automatically adjusted and
optimized to prevailing rock condi-
tions and hole depth. When entering
into faults and fractured zones, the
APC system reacts quickly and adjusts
the feed pressure and/or changes the
rev/min. Consequently, drilling is
smooth without risk of vibrations,
which also means that core recovery is
improved. Bit life, as a result, is
increased by 30 to 100 %.
Using APC, the drilling operation is
supervised by a computer, giving the
driller time for emptying core barrels,
preparing bits, and other duties. The
APC function automatically ceases
drilling at the end of each rod.
Mechanized rod-handling means that
the driller just has to load or unload
the rods and then press a foot pedal for
APC to take over, and the wireline
winch is also computer controlled.
Fault finding is easily carried out
with the self diagnostic CAN-bus
system. All drilling parameters are
logged and continuously recorded,
providing good analysis material for
the geologists. The operators appreci-
ate the touch screen control panel,
finding its display much easier to read
than gauges. Drilling parameters for
example water pressure are simply
changed by the turn of a knob.
Product Development
The SC (Super Cutter) represents a
new generation of impregnated dia-
mond core bits for all kinds of forma-
tions. Together with the launch of the
Super Cutter bit range, a new classifi-
cation system has been introduced.
The new standard will simplify the
choice of a suitable Craelius bit for
drilling of any particular strata. The
new system is related to Mohs scale
of rock hardness from 1 to 10, where
10 is the hardest. The Super Cutters
are identified with an applicable rock
group combination, instead of just a
matrix name. This greatly simplifies
bit selection.
The CORAC wireline system is
now available in the following sizes:
A, B, B2, N, N2, N3 and H. The main
benefits are: simple and reliable
design; multifunction latches for
added safety; a signal to confirm lock-
ing of the inner tube core barrel; fast
tripping and low water pressure; easily
extendable core barrel; double over-
load protection and built-in wirelock;
as well as improved stability. In com-
bination with the Craelius TUFF range
of rods, optimum performance is
obtained.
The modular-based design, with
fewer components, gives higher
availability.
Future Outlook
Since the exploration boom in 1997,
worldwide annual expenditure has
been drastically reduced from US$5
billion to less than US$2 billion. There
are now clear signs of a recovery. This
means that new, inexperienced core
drillers will be recruited. By equipping
machines with state of art PC technol-
ogy, similar to that used in Atlas
Copco blast hole drilling rigs such as
the latest generation of Simba and
Boomer, operator acceptance is
already vastly improved.
As a supplier of the complete
drilling system from the rig to the drill
string, Atlas Copco is focused on
developing and designing all com-
ponents to form an optimized package
for efficient and profitable core drilling.
by Anders Gustafsson
TALKING TECHNICALLY
4 UNDERGROUND MINING EQUIPMENT
Craelius diamond drill bit.
Releasing a core from the core barrel.
UGE1/05a Priples of un.g. 3-4 22/7/04 5:20 pm Page 4